Above Average Temperatures Drive Irrigation

Photo Courtesy of Chase County FFA

For the week ending June 26, 2016, irrigation was in full swing as temperatures, which averaged two to six degrees above normal, were accompanied by mostly dry conditions, according to the USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service. Dryland crops were beginning to show signs of stress as soil moisture supplies were drawn down. Rainfall totals of an inch or more were limited to parts of west central Nebraska and a few eastern counties. Row crops were developing quickly and the dry conditions allowed wheat harvest to progress in parts of the south. Ridge till operations and herbicide applications were major farm activities. There were 6.4 days suitable for fieldwork. Topsoil moisture supplies rated 5 percent very short, 32 short, 60 adequate, and 3 surplus. Subsoil moisture supplies rated 2 percent very short, 18 short, 77 adequate, and 3 surplus. 

Field Crops Report: Corn condition rated 1 percent very poor, 2 poor, 18 fair, 65 good, and 14 excellent. Corn silking was 1 percent, equal to last year, and near the five-year average of 2. 

Data for this news release were provided at the county level by USDA Farm Service Agency and UNL Extension Service.

Access the National publication for Crop Progress and Condition tables HERE
Access the High Plains Region Climate Center for Temperature and Precipitation Maps HERE
Access the U.S. Drought Monitor HERE